QuestionQUESTION: Idle wavers between 550-650 rpm. With no load, idle will stick at 1500 if revved up.
In drive, idle wavers but doesn't stick high.
After short drives a couple times a day, the car seems to die randomly. Complete power loss. No internal warning lights go off. Roll to a stop with no power. Tough start.
No codes, no check engine light.
Have replaced battery, plugs, rotor, cap, checked air mass sensor, idle air valve, cleaned throttle body, checked tps, checked for vacuum leaks.
Just went on 1100 mile trip hoping to make something go bad.
It didn't. Same symptoms. Tough diagnosis.
I need expert direction. Thank you.
ANSWER: Glenn, how did you check the airmass meter? Roger
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QUESTION: Roger, first I cleaned it with no change in symptoms. Then I disconnected it and the car died and it gave me a code for the air mass meter. Not a comprehensive test, but that's all I knew to do.
Another symptom: on the short drives, the car will die during deceleration after an acceleration- like the idle is too low.
I had it inspected on Saturday and it passed the dyno test. The mechanic said "at least it is running clean"; but he didn't know where the problem is coming from.
I am willing to start replacing sensors, but I don't know the logical order in which to start. And I can't afford to throw money at it...that's why I am talking to you!
Thank you for your help.
Glenn
ANSWER: Glenn, I dont want you throwing parts in it either. If the car died when you unplugged the meter, there is a problem. Car should start surging when you disconnect it. If you plug it in when its running then it dies, then the meter is the issue. Im thinking this is more ignition related like a speed sensor or ignition power stage. Does the RPM's quit suddenly? Roger
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QUESTION: Roger, I was wrong. The car does not die when I unplug it. The check engine light comes on and the idle still goes up and down. RRRrrrRRRrrr. The car does seem to be surging, but that sensor doesn't seem to affect it. And when I unplug it, the check engine light goes on. I also plugged it back it while running and it kept running. By the way, this car has a strange 2 pin air mass flow sensor, with a rubber grommet holding it in place. Numbers on it are 1537-1 074-93.
I just let it warm up and it started smoothing out, but it still has a background surge and idles just above 500 rpm.
When it shuts down, yes, RPM's quit suddenly and it's lights out.
Glenn
AnswerGlenn, no wonder none of this made any sense. You have a Regina rex fuel system. Whats most likely is happening is the fuel pump is starting to go. Common issue on these stupid fuel systems. I would have that pump checked. Its the only pump and its in the tank. Roger
